EC Proposes More Transparent Collection Of Aviation Security Fee

The European Commission this week proposed a new framework to govern the collection of aviation security charges, seeking a more transparent system to manage the patchwork of security fee collection methods applied by member states. As part of its proposed reform, the EC also is seeking to establish "an independent supervisory authority" within each member state to oversee the imposition of airport security fees.

Though the EC's proposal comes shy of initiating a singular airport security charge across all member states, it set forth "common principles for the levying of security charges" at airports in the European Union.

Among those, the EC in its proposal said security charges should "not discriminate between passengers or between airlines," airlines should be "consulted on the security charges in a compulsory and regular manner, at least once a year," and member states, airlines and airports should ensure transparency in the setting and collection of security fees.

Though an EC report issued in February found a "general consensus" among member states that "security charges should reflect security costs," the EC said it is "not convinced that this principle is respected at all European airports." As such, the EC in its proposal this week firmed up its language, asking that "security charges shall be used exclusively to meet security costs."

Examining fees levied at major European hubs, the Association of European Airlines said per-passenger charges can range from €2.15 to €11.

"Applying the principles of transparency, cost-relatedness and consultation with airport users to security charges will significantly contribute to a better understanding of what these discrepancies are based upon and ultimately lead to a more cost-effective system," AEA said.

AEA estimates that a "better dialogue" between carriers and airports on the issue "could contribute to around 10 percent of cost savings."

AEA noted that some countries elect to go beyond EU requirements by enacting more stringent airport security measures, which can comprise up to 50 percent of "total security costs."

The EC said, "It is important to establish transparency in relation to the economic impact of national security measures that are more stringent than EU requirements." AEA was hopeful that such efforts could result in fewer states employing security standards that go beyond EU requirements—"achieving a more harmonized security regime across Europe."

European Commission vice president of transport Antonio Tajani in a statement said, "Significant steps have been taken to ensure the protection of the public traveling by air. This has increased security costs for passengers. We need to take steps to ensure the most cost-effective provision of security services."

AEA said the European Parliament in a directive set in March also recognized some of the benefits proposed this week. AEA in a statement said it is hopeful the new framework "can be fast-tracked to enter into force in conjunction with the Airport Charges Directive, in March 2011 at the latest." While AEA said the moves are a "positive first step," it also argues for other proposals that address "public financing of aviation security."